The ethernet standard uses data packet transmission and error correction. Unlike streaming data transmission, this standard simply buffers and repeats until it has a complete instruction set which compensates data transmission errors.

Since UTP was cheaper in the beginning, it generally became the standard. If you are using the cables for ethernet connections, either should work. If you are using for a stream data system like video tranmission, the shielded should be used.

Question: What's the difference between "Solid" and "Stranded"

Answer: "Solid" vs. "Stranded" refers to the structure of the individual conduits in the cable. They can be a single solid wire or several thinner stranded wires. It's generally a matter of personal preferance which ones you use. Solids are easier to crimp connectors onto.

Question: What are the difference between the various in-wall ratings? (CMG, CMR, CMP)

Answer: In-wall ratings have to do with the burn characteristics of cabling and have no direct effect on the functional performance of the cables.

CMG is for general in-wall use. It is equivalent to CL2 & CL3. It is for general commercial and residential in-wall installation applications.

CMR is riser rated cable. These are suitable for situation where cable is passed from one floor of a structure to another.

CMP is for Plenum and is the highest in-wall rating. Plenum cables are specifically designed to go into the Plenum areas of commercial building where air circulation systems are. Plenum cables are formulated so they do not produce toxic gases as they burn.

While it is okay to use a higher rated cable in lower level applications, you should not do it the other way around.

Question: This cable is listed as being "bare copper", does that mean it has no cable jacket or insulation?

Answer: The "bare copper" refers to the construction of the conductors, as specified in the following reference:

The problem is that some manufacturer's cut costs by using Copper Clad Aluminum wire for their conductors. The aluminum has a higher resistance, which causes more heat and can thereby present a fire hazard. "Bare copper" is the term used in the National Electrical Code, Underwriters Laboratories, and the Communications Cable and Connectivity Association (CCCA). Our use of the term is intended to communicate our total compliance with their standards for Ethernet cable construction.

This is the very first bulk cable purchase I've made and this is just about how I pictured it would be. Cable feels good, not cheap. No problems at all stripping the cable and separating pairs. Would buy again.

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Rating: (10 out of 10)

Reviewer: polson from Roseville, MN

3/24/2014 11:49:13 AM

Works great

Cons: Jacket is pretty thin, but it has not impacted stripping the ends.

Just finished wiring my house with this cable. Everything is working great. I was a little worried at how thin the jacket is on the cable, but it doesn't seem to be a problem. I have not had one kink or snag when pulling from the box. I would buy this again.

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Rating: (7 out of 10)

Reviewer: mjs from Kalamazoo, MI

3/21/2014 4:50:09 AM

Cable good box bad

Pros: Cable was easy to work with as far as connector crimping, patch panel terminations etc..

Cons: I bought 4 boxes. The plastic piece where the cable comes out of the box was off and would not stay on. One of the 4 boxes kept catching during the pulling process.

For the most part. OK.

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Rating: (10 out of 10)

Reviewer: Anonymous from Tonawanda, NY

3/8/2014 5:26:15 PM

Good cable

Pros: Pure copper cable, NOT that CCA garbage. Didn't have any kinks out of the box. Overall good quality cable.

Cons: Expensive to ship

Make sure you purchase good quality cable like this one. Whatever you do make sure to avoid CCA. Overall this is a good quality cable, especially for the price. I pulled five 60-70 foot runs of it, no kinks and easy to work with. Stiff, but not too stiff, which was perfect for fishing in wall.

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